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Science News Archive 2015 - Page 238


Page 238 of 402

National Psoriasis Foundation awards $600,000 in Discovery Grants

The National Psoriasis Foundation has awarded eight researchers $75,000 each to study the causes of psoriasis and develop new treatments. The grants will support research into various aspects of psoriasis, including genetic mutations, skin stem cells, and inflammatory proteins.

SourceNational Psoriasis Foundation·DateJun 2, 2015

It takes a village: Why do consumers participate in wind energy programs?

A study found that consumers in a wind power program valued community membership over direct personal benefits, driven by a sense of shared risk and responsibility. Participants felt connected to others who lived environmentally conscious lives, influencing their actions and behaviors.

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Public Policy & Marketing·DateJun 2, 2015
Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple iPhone 17 Pro delivers top performance and advanced cameras for field documentation, data collection, and secure research communications.

Amount of time New Yorkers spend sitting around far exceeds healthy levels

A new study by NYU Langone Medical Center and the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene found that New Yorkers spend an average of over 7 hours a day sitting, greatly exceeding the recommended healthy levels. College-educated individuals, higher-income residents, and those aged 65 or older spent the most time sedentary.

SourceNYU Langone Health / NYU Grossman School of Medicine·JournalPreventing Chronic Disease·DateJun 2, 2015

Reflection in medical education can lead to less burn-out

Stritch School of Medicine's reflection-based curriculum aims to promote student self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and social justice. Students engage in regular reflections on their experiences through the Patient Centered Medicine Course and co-curricular programs.

SourceLoyola Medicine·JournalNarrative Inquiry in Bioethics·DateJun 2, 2015

Great Barrier Reef marine reserves combat coral disease

Researchers found that no-take marine reserves on the Great Barrier Reef significantly reduced coral disease levels, four times lower inside reserves compared to outside. The study highlights the benefits of marine reserves for enhancing coral health and managing fishing-related damage.

SourceARC Centre of Excellence for Coral Reef Studies·JournalEcology·DateJun 2, 2015

Measuring the mass of molecules on the nano-scale

Researchers developed coupled microcantilevers that can measure mass on the order of nanograms in a liquid environment with only a 1 percent margin of error. This enables weighing individual molecules, ideal for biological processes such as DNA hybridization and protein characterization.

SourceAmerican Institute of Physics·JournalApplied Physics Letters·DateJun 2, 2015
AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope

AmScope B120C-5M Compound Microscope supports teaching labs and QA checks with LED illumination, mechanical stage, and included 5MP camera.

Eyes sealed shut: Seamless closure of surgical incisions

A new technique developed by Prof. Abraham Katzir uses a fiber-optic laser to seamlessly bond corneal tissue without causing damage or leaving stitches, offering a major breakthrough in corneal transplant procedures. The system has shown promising results in clinical trials, with wounds treated successfully and minimal scar tissue.

SourceAmerican Friends of Tel Aviv University·JournalJournal of Biomedical Optics·DateJun 2, 2015

Hyperbaric hope for fibromyalgia sufferers

A clinical trial involving women diagnosed with fibromyalgia showed significant improvements in symptoms after undergoing hyperbaric oxygen therapy. Brain scans revealed changes in brain activity that may be responsible for the syndrome's chronic pain sensation.

SourceRice University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers from the University Bonn stimulate larynx muscles with light

A new study published in Nature Communications shows that light can be used to stimulate larynx muscles in mice, a potential breakthrough for treating laryngeal paralysis. The researchers used Channelrhodopsins, exotic molecules that open ion channels when illuminated, to create static and dynamic contractions.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalNature Communications·DateJun 2, 2015
Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount

Sky-Watcher EQ6-R Pro Equatorial Mount provides precise tracking capacity for deep-sky imaging rigs during long astrophotography sessions.

Creators of marshmallow test to receive 1st Golden Goose Award of 2015

Researchers Dr. Walter Mischel, Philip Peake, and Yuichi Shoda have been awarded the first Golden Goose Award for their work on the marshmallow test, which found correlations between self-control and life outcomes. Their research has led to advances in teaching self-control and improving lives.

SourceAssociation of American Universities·DateJun 2, 2015

For a good gut feeling

Researchers found that type II interferon signals cause the release of CXCL10, an attractant for cells promoting inflammation. This study provides a new impetus for treating colitis with antibodies or direct administration of type III interferons.

SourceUniversity of Vienna·JournalMolecular and Cellular Biology·DateJun 2, 2015

Astronomers discover a young solar system around a nearby star

Researchers have discovered a young planetary system with a ring-like disk of debris surrounding a Sun-like star, sharing similarities with the formation of our own early solar system. The disk is roughly the same size as our solar system's Kuiper Belt and may contain dust and icy particles.

SourceNational Institutes of Natural Sciences·JournalThe Astrophysical Journal Letters·DateJun 2, 2015
SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB

SAMSUNG T9 Portable SSD 2TB transfers large imagery and model outputs quickly between field laptops, lab workstations, and secure archives.

DFG to fund 13 new Collaborative Research Centres

The Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft has approved 13 new Collaborative Research Centres, focusing on topics such as emotional dynamics, inflammation, and manufacturing processes. These centres will receive approximately $113 million in funding over a four-year period, starting in July 2015.

SourceDeutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft·DateJun 2, 2015

Childhood trauma gets under the skin

A new study found that childhood trauma can lead to heightened inflammation across three blood biomarkers in adults. This increased inflammation may contribute to various health problems, including type-2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The research suggests that different types of trauma have varying effects on inflammation levels.

SourceKing's College London·JournalMolecular Psychiatry·DateJun 2, 2015

Saving money and the environment with 3-D printing

A Northwestern University team has confirmed a new way to help the airline industry save dollars while also saving the environment. By manufacturing aircraft's metal parts with 3-D printing, airlines could save a significant amount of fuel, materials, and other resources.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalJournal of Cleaner Production·DateJun 2, 2015

Chemists weigh intact virus mixture with mass spectrometer

Researchers at Carnegie Mellon University successfully separated and weighed a mixture of intact virus particles using matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization MS. This technique, called heavy ion mass spectrometry, allows for the analysis of viruses that are too large to be detected by standard instruments.

SourceCarnegie Mellon University·DateJun 2, 2015
Creality K1 Max 3D Printer

Creality K1 Max 3D Printer rapidly prototypes brackets, adapters, and fixtures for instruments and classroom demonstrations at large build volume.

Weight-loss surgery puts spark back into relationships

Bariatric surgery not only benefits patients' health but also strengthens their relationships with partners, according to a new study. Couples reported improved intimacy, better conflict resolution, and enhanced sexual relationships after one partner underwent weight loss surgery.

SourceSpringer·JournalObesity Surgery·DateJun 2, 2015

Is our first line of defense sleeping on the job?

Research found that 90% of bacteria on human skin are either dead or inactive, with different areas harboring varying proportions of metabolically active, inactive, and dead microbes. Activity levels decreased with age, suggesting a possible relationship between the microbiome and immune system function.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2015
Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C)

Anker Laptop Power Bank 25,000mAh (Triple 100W USB-C) keeps Macs, tablets, and meters powered during extended observing runs and remote surveys.

Scary TV's impact on kids is overstated, say psychologists

A recent study by University of Sussex researchers suggests that the impact of scary TV on children's internalizing emotions is smaller than previously thought. Overall, children show very little sign of increased anxiety or fear, but some may be more affected due to individual differences in anxiety levels.

SourceUniversity of Sussex·JournalHuman Communication Research·DateJun 2, 2015

Mass. General team develops transplantable bioengineered forelimb in an animal model

A team of Massachusetts General Hospital investigators has developed a bioartificial replacement limb suitable for transplantation using an experimental approach previously used to build bioartificial organs. The researchers successfully engineered rat forelimbs with functioning vascular and muscle tissue, and provided evidence that th...

SourceMassachusetts General Hospital·JournalBiomaterials·DateJun 2, 2015

Satellite imagery shows a weaker Hurricane Andres

Hurricane Andres has weakened significantly due to unfavorable sea surface temperatures, with maximum sustained winds decreasing to near 105 mph. The storm is expected to become a tropical storm tonight or Wednesday, followed by a turn toward the north and a decrease in forward speed.

SourceNASA/Goddard Space Flight Center·DateJun 2, 2015
CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock

CalDigit TS4 Thunderbolt 4 Dock simplifies serious desks with 18 ports for high-speed storage, monitors, and instruments across Mac and PC setups.

Does Agion silver technology work as an antimicrobial?

Researchers found that Agion silver zeolite technology significantly reduced bacterial populations on door handles, particularly gram-negative bacteria. The study suggests that the technology may be more effective than previously thought, but further research is needed to address concerns about standardization and potential side effects.

SourceAmerican Society for Microbiology·DateJun 2, 2015

How Microprocessor precisely initiates miRNA production

Researchers have discovered how Microprocessor, a complex of DROSHA and DGCR8, precisely determines cleavage sites on miRNA-containing primary transcripts. This process allows faithful initiation of microRNA biogenesis.

SourceInstitute for Basic Science·JournalCell·DateJun 2, 2015

How a box jellyfish catches fish

The Irukandji box jellyfish uses its nematocyst clusters like experienced fishermen use their lures. The tiny but deadly jellyfish actively targets and catches complex fish that are often larger than itself, displaying a surprising complex prey capture strategy.

SourceJames Cook University·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

UF study shows benefits of multi-tasking on exercise

Researchers found that older adults' cycling speed improved while completing cognitive tasks without sacrificing cognitive performance. The study suggests combining physical activity with mental tasks may encourage more vigorous exercise.

SourceUniversity of Florida·JournalPLOS ONE·DateJun 2, 2015

No improvement in cognition with post-menopausal hormones

A recent study found that post-menopausal hormone therapy did not improve cognitive function, but may have benefits for certain mood symptoms. The trial included 693 recently postmenopausal women and followed them for four years, with some women experiencing improvements in mood symptoms.

SourcePLOS·JournalPLOS Medicine·DateJun 2, 2015
Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply

Rigol DP832 Triple-Output Bench Power Supply powers sensors, microcontrollers, and test circuits with programmable rails and stable outputs.

Microendoscope could eliminate unneeded biopsies

Researchers found that the low-cost, portable device could spare unnecessary biopsies for about 90% of patients with benign lesions. The study involved 147 U.S. and Chinese patients undergoing examination for potentially malignant squamous cell tumors.

SourceRice University·JournalGASTROENTEROLOGY·DateJun 2, 2015

Hidden costs: Emotion responses to command and control

Researchers found that creating conflict with target population can backfire, while positively framed policies support choice and lead to positive responses. The study highlights the need for policymakers to empathize with their audience and work with them rather than against them.

SourceCornell Food & Brand Lab·JournalAmerican Journal of Agricultural Economics·DateJun 2, 2015
Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro)

Apple MacBook Pro 14-inch (M4 Pro) powers local ML workloads, large datasets, and multi-display analysis for field and lab teams.

Schiff receives NIH Pioneer Award

Dr. Steven Schiff aims to reduce infant mortality from neonatal sepsis by identifying infection causes and developing predictive models for optimal antimicrobial treatment. His research seeks to apply engineering control principles to prevent infections, with potential applications worldwide.

SourcePenn State·DateJun 2, 2015
GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro HERO13 Black records stabilized 5.3K video for instrument deployments, field notes, and outreach, even in harsh weather and underwater conditions.

Greenhouse gas-caused warming felt in just months

A study by Carnegie's Xiaochun Zhang and Ken Caldeira found that the carbon dioxide-caused warming exceeds the amount of heat released by a lump of coal in just 34 days. Continuous power plant burning also triggers similar effects, with CO2 accumulation surpassing combustion emissions within three months.

SourceCarnegie Institution for Science·JournalGeophysical Research Letters·DateJun 2, 2015

Study explores how past Native-American settlement modified Western New York forests

A new study by University at Buffalo geographers found that Native American villages in Chautauqua County, NY, favored the growth of fire-tolerant tree species like hickory, chestnut, and oak. These trees produce edible nuts and are more likely to survive fires, suggesting that human activity altered the forest landscape.

SourceUniversity at Buffalo·JournalEcological Monographs·DateJun 2, 2015

Teens turn to Internet to cope with health challenges

A national survey found that 84% of teens turn to the internet for health information, but 88% do not share their concerns with friends or social media. This study highlights the importance of accurate and accessible digital health resources for teenagers, who use online tools to make behavior changes and take care of themselves.

SourceNorthwestern University·DateJun 2, 2015
Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope

Celestron NexStar 8SE Computerized Telescope combines portable Schmidt-Cassegrain optics with GoTo pointing for outreach nights and field campaigns.

Placental malaria research funded by March of Dimes

The March of Dimes Foundation has funded a Portuguese laboratory to study factors that act in the placenta to protect the fetus from malaria. The research focuses on trophoblast cells, which are crucial for maternal-fetal exchanges of nutrients and gases.

SourceInstituto Gulbenkian de Ciencia·DateJun 2, 2015

Researchers pinpoint epicenter of brain's predictive ability

Researchers have identified the epicenter of the brain's predictive ability in limbic tissue, which also plays a key role in emotions. This discovery challenges traditional theories on emotion and suggests that the brain is wired to ask questions about past experiences rather than react to external stimuli.

SourceNortheastern University·JournalNature Reviews Neuroscience·DateJun 2, 2015

Pocket change: When does corporate gratitude backfire

A new study in the Journal of Marketing found that companies may inadvertently devalue customer relationships with small monetary gifts. The authors suggest firms consider directing such gifts to charity to avoid the 'trivialization effect',

SourceAmerican Marketing Association·JournalJournal of Marketing·DateJun 2, 2015
Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter measures wind, temperature, and humidity in real time for site assessments, aviation checks, and safety briefings.

Schools failing to address biased student discipline

A Michigan State University scholar argues that school districts are complicit in the oppression of students of color by ignoring the issue of biased student discipline. Researchers faced roadblocks and resistance from district administrators who viewed their efforts as a threat.

SourceMichigan State University·JournalTeachers College Record The Voice of Scholarship in Education·DateJun 2, 2015

Single 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to reflect changing risk factors

A new study suggests that the standard 30-day hospital readmission metric fails to accurately reflect changing risk factors. Researchers found that early readmissions (0-7 days post discharge) were associated with acute illness markers, while late readmissions (8-30 days post discharge) were more closely tied to chronic illness burden.

SourceBeth Israel Deaconess Medical Center·JournalAnnals of Internal Medicine·DateJun 2, 2015
DJI Air 3 (RC-N2)

DJI Air 3 (RC-N2) captures 4K mapping passes and environmental surveys with dual cameras, long flight time, and omnidirectional obstacle sensing.

New heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode for high-frequency efficiency

The researchers developed a novel ultra-compact heterogeneous wavelength tunable laser diode using silicon photonics and quantum-dot technology, achieving a wide-range tuning operation of around 1250 nm wavelength with an ultra-small device footprint. The obtained frequency tuning-range of 8.8 THz is a world record for QD and silicon p...

SourceTohoku University·JournalApplied Physics Express·DateJun 2, 2015

Endurance athletes should be tested while exercising for potentially fatal heart condition

Current practice of testing athletes at rest may miss signs of right ventricular dysfunction that can lead to sudden death. A new study shows that exercise echocardiography can detect changes in the right ventricle's functioning during physical activity, providing a potential diagnostic tool for cardiologists managing athletes.

SourceEuropean Society of Cardiology·JournalEuropean Heart Journal·DateJun 2, 2015

Inexperienced investors should take advantage of 'auto-pilot investing'

Researchers found that inexperienced investors are more likely to invest in target-date funds, which minimize investment mistakes. TDFs automatically adjust asset mixes based on age, providing a safe option for those with limited knowledge of the investment world.

SourceUniversity of Missouri-Columbia·JournalThe Journal of Retirement·DateJun 1, 2015

Crashing comets may explain mysterious lunar swirls

Researchers at Brown University propose that comet collisions may have formed lunar swirls through the scouring of loose soil. Computer simulations suggest that impacts from cometary comas can produce bright streaks on the moon's surface.

SourceBrown University·JournalIcarus·DateJun 1, 2015
Meta Quest 3 512GB

Meta Quest 3 512GB enables immersive mission planning, terrain rehearsal, and interactive STEM demos with high-resolution mixed-reality experiences.

Psychology: Does aging affect decision making?

Older adults perform just as well as younger adults in simple decision-making, according to a study published in Cognition. However, in more complex decisions, older adults may struggle due to age-related cognitive decline. The study suggests that simple learning strategies can be useful for aging decision makers despite limitations.

SourceUniversity of Basel·JournalCognition·DateJun 1, 2015